A nationally recognized retail store that had been operating in south Alabama for six generations is set to close soon, according to an announcement from the business.

Located in Mobile at 4213 Halls Mill Rd, Robert Moore and Company Christmas Town, is closing after over 50 years of business. Owned by Robert Moore, the store opened in 1976 as a florist shop but transformed into one of the biggest Christmas stores in the South.

The store has expanded to sell top brand name items for Christmas and additional holidays. These items include collectibles, gifts, toys, nativities and more.

Larry Heard has been at the helm of the company after Moore died in 2019. Heard, 68, told AL.com that he has worked with the company since he was 21 and felt it was time shut it down primarily due to his age.

“I’ve gotten old,” Heard said. “I’m now almost 70 years old, and you know, with a lot of the things that we’re having to battle with, getting the merchandise here, ordering the merchandise, and being told that some of it’s not going to come, that connects the other work that has come, all those things are factors that have just led to this decision. But the biggest one is, I’m getting old.”

As part of the store’s permanent closure, a going out of business sale will be conducted to help get rid of the goods available at their 18,000 square foot showroom.

The sale will launch privately by invitation on May 7 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. before opening to the public on May 8 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Customers looking for additional information or to sign up for sales alerts and updates can visit the store’s website here.

Heard said it was an honor for him and Moore to have worked for the community, or what he deemed his “extended family.” for so many years.

“It has been mine and Mr. Moore’s privilege to work for you –our extended family– and I’m going to miss all the relationships I’ve built over the years,’ Heard said. “I know God has a plan, so please look at our final goodbye as a joyful new beginning.”